Accident – Death – Obituary News :

Two Men Face Federal Charges in Fatal Hudson River Boat Capsizing Incident

Two men are set to face federal charges in connection with the tragic capsizing of a sightseeing boat in the Hudson River almost two years ago. Richard Cruz and Jamie Pinilla Gomez will be arraigned on Thursday for their alleged roles in the incident.

Details of the Incident

The incident took place in July of 2022 when Cruz and Pinilla Gomez were operating a boat at a high speed, causing it to capsize and throw 13 people overboard. Sadly, a 7-year-old boy and a 47-year-old woman lost their lives after becoming trapped underneath the overturned boat.

The victims were identified as 7-year-old Julian Vasquez from Florida and 47-year-old Lindelia Vasquez from Colombia. They were part of a group of family members who had boarded the jet boat named Stimulus Money in Elizabeth, New Jersey, for a leisurely trip on the Hudson River.

The 27-foot Yamaha vessel overturned near the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum under circumstances that are still under investigation. Officials suspect that the boat may have been caught in the wake of a passing vessel.

Legal Consequences

Prosecutors have alleged that Cruz and Pinilla Gomez were negligent in their actions and did not possess the necessary credentials and certifications to operate the boat safely. As a result, they are now facing federal charges related to the incident.

It is a tragic reminder of the importance of following safety protocols and regulations when operating any watercraft, especially in busy waterways like the Hudson River.

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